- WNBA. Angel Reese finds a new way to dominate WNBA by hitting first-ever three-pointer
- WNBA. Serious insults get on Kalani Brown’s nerves on Twitter: B***h, stop playing with me
Dearica Hamby stood in the center of her huddled Los Angeles Sparks teammates, the sting of their latest loss still fresh. Despite leading by double digits against the struggling Washington Mystics, the Sparks faltered in the fourth quarter, extending their losing streak to eight games. As the final buzzer echoed through the arena, Hamby’s message to her team was resolute and simple: “Next game.”
Hamby’s calm confidence might sound like a standard post-game platitude, but it speaks to her deeper journey. Selected sixth overall in the 2015 draft by the San Antonio Stars, later the Las Vegas Aces, Hamby’s career has been marked by patience and growth. Her tenure with the Aces earned her two Sixth Player of the Year awards and two All-Star selections.
A significant twist came when Hamby was traded to the Sparks after announcing her pregnancy during the Aces’ championship celebration in 2022. Initially playing a secondary role behind MVP Nneka Ogwumike and center Azurá Stevens, Hamby seized her opportunity this season. Averaging career highs of 18.3 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, she has emerged as the star of the Sparks.
“I envisioned this. I declared it,” Hamby said of her standout performance. “Consistency and delivery night after night is something I take pride in.” Her resilience and perseverance have transformed her into a key leader for her team.
Ogwumike’s move to the Seattle Storm during free agency opened the door for Hamby. Conversations with former player development coach Nola Henry, now an assistant coach for the Sparks, were crucial. Henry dubbed this season as Hamby’s “revenge tour,” a chance for her to excel.
Hamby’s overseas experience fuels breakout season
Playing overseas during the offseason was crucial for Hamby, not just financially but mentally. It boosted her confidence, setting the stage for a strong start to the WNBA season. She made an impact with 20 points and 14 rebounds in the season opener, followed by a career-high 29 points against the Aces.
Thank you for watching
Teammate Kia Nurse commended Hamby’s leadership and energy. “Dearica’s talent has always been there. Now, in a starring role, she’s flourishing,” Nurse said. Hamby’s nurturing leadership style, influenced by her experience as a mother, has been particularly effective.
Despite the team’s struggles, including a 4-15 record and key injuries, Hamby’s patience and resilience remain unshaken. Head coach Curt Miller emphasized the toll of her responsibilities, noting how sore and fatigued she is from carrying the team.
